1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2003 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Toyota Corolla is newer by 24 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 38 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (96 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2003 Toyota Corolla. 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, 2003 Toyota Corolla, 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2003 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 230 | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 96 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
