1971 Austin 1800 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 361 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | C |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2996 cc |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 66 L |
