1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2012 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2012 Ford Mondeo is newer by 36 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, 2012 Ford Mondeo (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 185 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, 2012 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2012 Ford Mondeo (208 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2012 Ford Mondeo 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. 2012 Ford Mondeo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2012 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 230 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 208 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
