2002 Ford Econovan vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Ford Econovan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2002 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 755 kg more than 2002 Ford Econovan. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Econovan. (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Econovan. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Econovan has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Econovan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Econovan | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Econovan | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2700 mm |
