1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2007 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2007 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota RAV4 (134 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Toyota RAV4, 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, 2007 Toyota RAV4 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2007 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 230 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
