2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (156 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 66 L |
