1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2011 Nissan Sentra is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 57 kg more than 2011 Nissan Sentra.
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, 2011 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Sentra 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 | 2011 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | C | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1353 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
