1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2009 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 317 kg more than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.

Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2009 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 2009 Hyundai Elantra
Make Mercedes-Benz Hyundai
Model 230 Elantra
Year Released 1976 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2305 cc 1975 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 109 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 185 Nm 186 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.7 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.6 mm 93.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 1058 kg
Vehicle Length 4650 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 55 L