1996 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 240 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 409 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz V | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | V | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 620 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2760 mm |