2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Volkswagen Parati
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 Volkswagen Parati. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Parati would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 630 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. 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 Volkswagen Parati, 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 (260 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Parati. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Parati.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Parati |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
