2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (151 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 175 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
