2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 567 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 275 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
