2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1979 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Civic would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP) has 154 more horse power than 1979 Honda Civic. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 860 kg more than 1979 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Honda Civic, 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 C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Civic. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1979 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | C | Civic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1335 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 40 L |
