2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Ferrari California
To start off, 2009 Ferrari California is newer by 7 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 4,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ferrari California is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ferrari California (460 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ferrari California should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ferrari California weights approximately 270 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, 2009 Ferrari California (483 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Ferrari California will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2009 Ferrari California has manual transmission. 2009 Ferrari California 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 | 2009 Ferrari California | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ferrari |
| Model | C | California |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 460 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4562 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1308 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 78 L |
