2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 495 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Simca |
| Model | C | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 47 L |
