1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 241 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
