1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 150 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent, 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 76 L |
