1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 444 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maestro | C |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2810 mm |
