2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Subaru DL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru DL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru DL would be higher. At 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1981 Subaru DL. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru DL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 872 kg more than 1981 Subaru DL. 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, 1981 Subaru DL, 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 (300 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru DL. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru DL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Subaru DL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | C | DL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1298 cc |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |
