2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 265 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SE |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
