2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volkswagen Parati
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Parati. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Parati would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. (91 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 545 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Parati, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. (148 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Parati has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Parati will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Parati |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
