1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius 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. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius.
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 Toyota Prius, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Prius |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
