2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1986 Toyota Tercel

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1986 Toyota Tercel. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 710 kg more than 1986 Toyota Tercel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Toyota Tercel, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Toyota Tercel. (108 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Toyota Tercel. 1986 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Mercedes-Benz C 1986 Toyota Tercel
Make Mercedes-Benz Toyota
Model C Tercel
Year Released 2004 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2148 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 120 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 108 Nm
Engine Bore Size 88.1 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 71 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 780 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 3890 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2440 mm