2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
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 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (240 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 289 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 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (230 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
