1998 Lancia Kappa vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 2,451 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Lancia Kappa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 165 kg more than 1998 Lancia Kappa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lancia Kappa. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lancia Kappa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lancia Kappa | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2451 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
