1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1171 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 2008 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
