2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Toyota Camry
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,163 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Camry. (134 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Toyota Camry. 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, 1997 Toyota Camry, 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 (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Camry. (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Camry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Camry |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
