2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 145 kg more than 1981 Lancia Gamma. 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, 1981 Lancia Gamma, 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lancia Gamma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | C | Gamma |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
