2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 200 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (340 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 190 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
