2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 55 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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, 2005 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 (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
