2008 Honda FR-V vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Honda FR-V 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 2,204 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda FR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda FR-V (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda FR-V should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda FR-V weights approximately 176 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Honda FR-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, 2008 Honda FR-V (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Honda FR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda FR-V | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | FR-V | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
