1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Stanza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Stanza |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2480 mm |
