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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 5500 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 388 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 2064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
