1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1983 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1983 Peugeot 205 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 205. (80 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 205. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Peugeot 205, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 205. (109 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 205.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1983 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 230 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2430 mm |
