1999 Ford O21 C vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1999 Ford O21 C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1999 Ford O21 C. (128 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford O21 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1999 Ford O21 C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford O21 C, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford O21 C. (178 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford O21 C. 1999 Ford O21 C has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford O21 C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford O21 C | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | O21 C | 230 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 65 L |
