2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 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 (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 303 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
