2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 358 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 300 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 CLS (699 Nm) has 459 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
