1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Fiat Croma
To start off, 2012 Fiat Croma is newer by 15 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Croma. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 65 kg more than 2012 Fiat Croma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Fiat Croma, 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 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat Croma. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat Croma. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Fiat Croma has manual transmission. 2012 Fiat Croma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | C | Croma |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 62 L |
