2008 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1983 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 520 kg more than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Skoda Rapid R 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 1983 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1983 Skoda Rapid R has manual transmission. 1983 Skoda Rapid R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | 1983 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | B | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 47 L |
