2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
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 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Carina. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 445 kg more than 1988 Toyota Carina. 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, 1988 Toyota Carina, 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 (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Carina. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
