1997 Fiat Punto vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Punto. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1990 kg more than 1997 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Punto, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Punto. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Punto | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1108 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2770 mm |
