1997 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 750 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 66 L |
