2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 12 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Fiesta (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 273 kg more than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1137 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
