1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford C-Max 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Ford C-Max. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford C-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford C-Max weights approximately 140 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, 2012 Ford C-Max, 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, 2012 Ford C-Max (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford C-Max 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 | 2012 Ford C-Max | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | C | C-Max |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 95 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1828 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1684 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2788 mm |