1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2012 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford C-Max is newer by 25 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 Ford C-Max. (113 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford C-Max weights approximately 210 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
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, 2012 Ford C-Max, 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 Ford C-Max (300 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford C-Max 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 | 2012 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 230 | C-Max |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2788 mm |
