2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 765 kg more than 2007 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2890 mm |
