1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (64 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 500 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Riley |
| Model | C | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 25 L |
