1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito is newer by 11 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. At 2,151 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 120 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito weights approximately 606 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito (300 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vito | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | Vito |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2151 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2016 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 78 L |
