1997 Porsche 993 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 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,589 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Porsche 993. (282 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Porsche 993. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 196 kg more than 1997 Porsche 993. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 993 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche 993. (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche 993. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche 993 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 Porsche 993 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 993 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3589 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 341 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2760 mm |
