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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 469 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
