2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 Toyota Corolla. 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 Toyota Corolla, 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 (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Corolla. (127 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
