1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 MG ZT
To start off, 2003 MG ZT is newer by 7 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 1,951 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MG ZT (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG ZT weights approximately 75 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.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 MG ZT, 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, 2003 MG ZT (300 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 MG ZT 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 | 2003 MG ZT | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | C | ZT |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2760 mm |
