2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Porsche Boxster
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 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 303 kg more than 1996 Porsche Boxster.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Porsche Boxster. (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Porsche Boxster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | C | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
