2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 470 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 62 L |
