2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 665 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | G |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
