2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1420 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz
Model C C
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1797 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 85.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 78.7 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2830 kg 1410 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1450 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1780 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 62 L