2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 377 kg more than 2003 Ford C-MAX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford C-MAX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-MAX | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 80 L |
