1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 295 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.4 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 105 L |
