2003 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prizm | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2700 mm |
