2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
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 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 200 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
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 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (231 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | C | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 57 L |
