2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
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 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 3,498 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (201 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Porsche Boxster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 76 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 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 | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | C | Boxster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2480 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2360 mm |
