1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 14 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. (118 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 145 kg more than 2012 Fiat Grande Punto. 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, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 2012 Fiat Grande Punto (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Fiat Grande Punto 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 | 2012 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | C | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
