2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 510 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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 (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Santana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
