1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 464 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Ford Zodiac. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zodiac | C |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
