2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2460 mm |
