1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 20 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
