2003 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,996 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2996 cc |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 62 L |
