2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 935 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | CLS | Stanza |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2480 mm |
