2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
