2004 Ford C-MAX vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford C-MAX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford C-MAX would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2004 Ford C-MAX. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford C-MAX.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford C-MAX, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford C-MAX. (197 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford C-MAX. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford C-MAX has manual transmission. 2004 Ford C-MAX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford C-MAX | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-MAX | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 66 L |
