1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 251 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.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2295 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1616 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1392 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |