2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 340 kg more than 2002 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
