1981 Nissan Stanza vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Stanza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Stanza | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stanza | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2760 mm |
