1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 48 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S 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:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2810 mm |
