1998 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 600 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prizm | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
