1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. (237 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 560 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (617 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3165 mm |
