2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
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 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 560 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
