1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat Barchetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Barchetta would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 470 kg more than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barchetta | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2720 mm |
