1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2011 Tesla Roadster 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. In terms of performance, 2011 Tesla Roadster (288 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Tesla Roadster 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 175 kg more than 2011 Tesla Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Tesla Roadster (370 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm). This means 2011 Tesla Roadster 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 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tesla |
| Model | C | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Electric |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2352 mm |
