1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1984 Subaru DL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Subaru DL 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 53 more horse power than 1984 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 590 kg more than 1984 Subaru DL. 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, 1984 Subaru DL, 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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Subaru DL. (100 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1984 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | C | DL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2470 mm |
