1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Skoda Octavia. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Skoda Octavia. 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 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | C | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
