2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 470 kg more than 2009 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | S |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |