1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is newer by 11 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 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Transporter is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 934 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Transporter (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Transporter 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Transporter | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Transporter |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 2000 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
