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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (457 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 780 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 (601 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (500 Nm @ 1800 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 | 6208 cc | 3221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 457 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 601 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 8.2 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 | 1145 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 88 L |
