2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 329 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Sunfire, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | C | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
