2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 460 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.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 72 L |
