2009 BMW 128 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 BMW 128 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2009 BMW 128. (231 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 128.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 128. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 128. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 128 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 128 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 128 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 128 | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 69 L |
