2004 Porsche 996 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (201 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 31 kg more than 2004 Porsche 996.
Because 2004 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2004 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2004 Porsche 996 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Porsche 996 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 996 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1551 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 66 L |
