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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 20 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 810 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 270 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 | 2985 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 14.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
