1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 735 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Ballade has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Ballade will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ballade | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2720 mm |
