2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
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 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
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 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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 (340 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Cabriolet |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2480 mm |
