2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 225 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1760 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
