1997 Lancia Kappa 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 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Kappa (202 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1280 kg more than 1997 Lancia Kappa.
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 Lancia Kappa, 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, 1997 Lancia Kappa (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1997 Lancia Kappa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Kappa | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
