2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza

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 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 755 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Stanza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz C 1981 Nissan Stanza
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model C Stanza
Year Released 2005 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3199 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 349 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2480 mm