2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse
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 Rover Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Rover Vitesse would be higher. At 2,675 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Rover Vitesse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Rover Vitesse (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1403 kg more than 1988 Rover Vitesse.
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, 1988 Rover Vitesse, 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Rover Vitesse. (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Rover Vitesse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Rover Vitesse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rover |
| Model | C | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2675 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
