2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (237 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 125 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (402 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 402 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
