2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Toyota Camry
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 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Camry. (134 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1415 kg more than 1997 Toyota Camry. 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 Toyota Camry, 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 (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Camry. (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Camry. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota Camry has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota Camry 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 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Camry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
