2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (157 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 50 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, 2001 Toyota Highlander, 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 (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota Highlander. 2001 Toyota Highlander 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. 2001 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
