2003 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Highlander. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 30 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2003 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Highlander 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Highlander. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Toyota Highlander | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Toyota | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Highlander | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2766 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 66 L |
