2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 555 kg more than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | C | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
