1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 12 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 900 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 2010 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
