2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Toyota Camry
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 2,164 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Camry. (135 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1417 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Toyota Camry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Camry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2164 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1810 mm |
