1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2011 Ford C-Max is newer by 15 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 193 more horse power than 2011 Ford C-Max. (150 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 301 kg more than 2011 Ford C-Max. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford C-Max, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 2011 Ford C-Max. (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford C-Max. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2011 Ford C-Max has manual transmission. 2011 Ford C-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | E | C-Max |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1626 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2648 mm |
