1971 Ford 17 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford 17 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 415 kg more than 1971 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (261 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford 17. (112 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford 17 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 17 | C |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 62 L |
