2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 365 kg more than 2006 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 E (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
