2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 508 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Routan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 78 L |
