1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Scion tC
To start off, 2004 Scion tC is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Scion tC (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Scion tC.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC, 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, 2004 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Scion |
| Model | C | tC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
