1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 90 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
