1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 431 kg more than 2008 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
