2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Porsche Boxster
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 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1578 kg more than 1996 Porsche Boxster.
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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche Boxster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | C | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2480 cc |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1252 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
