2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
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 V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (142 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 515 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | V |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
