1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra is newer by 30 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2009 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 230 | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 262 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
