2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 240 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 Toyota Highlander. 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
