2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 468 kg more than 2003 Ford C-MAX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (450 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford C-MAX. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford C-MAX has manual transmission. 2003 Ford C-MAX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-MAX | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
