1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
