1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1979 Subaru Leone
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Leone. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Leone would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1979 Subaru Leone. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru Leone. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 585 kg more than 1979 Subaru Leone. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Subaru Leone is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Subaru Leone will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru Leone. (135 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru Leone. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Subaru Leone has manual transmission. 1979 Subaru Leone will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1979 Subaru Leone | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | C | Leone |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2390 mm |
