2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 25 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
