2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Vibe (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 263 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Vibe.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (177 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Vibe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
