1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Rekord. (186 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Rekord. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1983 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1983 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
