1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Shadow (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 252 kg more than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Shadow.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Shadow | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Shadow | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
