1999 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 310 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
