1996 Honda Accord vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda Accord, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (184 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Accord | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
