2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Seat Alhambra
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 Seat Alhambra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Seat Alhambra would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Seat Alhambra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Seat Alhambra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Seat Alhambra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1996 Seat Alhambra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Seat Alhambra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Seat Alhambra. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Seat Alhambra. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Seat Alhambra has manual transmission. 1996 Seat Alhambra 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 Seat Alhambra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Seat |
| Model | C | Alhambra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2830 mm |
