2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (209 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Highlander. (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Highlander. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | C | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 3311 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
