1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (136 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | E | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |