2006 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1996 Seat Marbella
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Seat Marbella. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Seat Marbella would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Seat Marbella. (40 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1996 Seat Marbella. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 690 kg more than 1996 Seat Marbella. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Seat Marbella, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Seat Marbella. (60 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Seat Marbella.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | 1996 Seat Marbella | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Seat |
| Model | B | Marbella |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2170 mm |
