1996 Fiat Punto 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 Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Punto. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 825 kg more than 1996 Fiat Punto. 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 Punto, 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Punto. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Punto. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Punto | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
