2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,796 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | C | Prizm |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1794 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2470 mm |