2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1979 Subaru DL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru DL would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 645 kg more than 1979 Subaru DL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru DL. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru DL. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Subaru DL has manual transmission. 1979 Subaru DL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1979 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | C | DL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 60 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
