2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Carina. (126 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 420 kg more than 1988 Toyota Carina. 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, 1988 Toyota Carina, 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 (315 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Carina. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Carina |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2540 mm |
