1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 515 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1600 | C |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 181 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 66 L |
