1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1770 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-7 | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
