1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
