1971 Honda Z 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 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1971 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 715 kg more than 1971 Honda Z. 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 Honda Z, 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 (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Z. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1971 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1971 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda Z | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | C |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 355 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2770 mm |
