1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1989 TVR 400
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR 400 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR 400 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR 400 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 260 kg more than 1989 TVR 400.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 TVR 400 (366 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 TVR 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1989 TVR 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | C | 400 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2420 mm |
