2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 69 L |
