1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 215 kg more than 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 190 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
