2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,461 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 R (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2799 cc |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
