2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 9 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | C |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
