1981 Ford Capri vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 615 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Capri. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (85 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Capri | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2970 mm |
