1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2009 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Versa (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 71 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Versa, 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 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2009 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 220 | Versa |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
