2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 506 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz 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 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3010 mm |
