1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. Both 1998 Mercedes-Benz C and 2008 Toyota Matrix are equipped with a 1,799 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 1171 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
