1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 265 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
