2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 255 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (451 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2799 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
