1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 3,827 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 165 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 230 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 3827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 67 L |
