Mercedes-Benz C300 (3.0L V6): 228 hp @ 6000 rpm; 221 lb-ft @ 2700 – 5000 rpm
BMW 328i (3.0L inline-six): 230 hp @ 6500 rpm; 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
The output of the Mercedes engine seems just fine to me. I'd gladly lose two horsepower to gain 21 ft-lbs.
But for the power-hungry, the Infiniti G35, for the same price as the C300 and 328i, offers 306 hp @ 6800 rpm
and 268 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm.
When a peak torque is described at a higher rpm, does that mean that you generally have to rev higher to get maximum torque in that particular car?
Does it have anything to do with the range or "band" or high torque?
The peak torque is just like you said, the maximum torque. Yes, if it is at a higher RPM you need to crank higher to get peak torque output.
Torque band just refers to an RPM range where the amount of torque developed is "close to maximum," something like 85 or 90%. Peak torque occurs within this RPM range, usually.
I say usually because you usually have many localized peaks within the torque curve. Observe below the dyno of a 06 manual TSX. Note the purple line (stock) has a huge dropoff in torque between 5k and 6k, and then a final peak around 6300 or so. Personally I would characterize the torque band as being between 2800 and 5000, but of course the torque output at 6300 is very, very close to the overall maximum.
Engines typically start off with crummy torque, build up around 2k, and then run out of steam at various points depending on sophistication. Here, the TSX dies at 5k, then VTEC kicks in, changing things up and bringing a second rise and fall in torque output.
**The Hondata reflash modifies the VTEC crossover point so the transition is smoother and you don't get a drop in power output at 5k. Silly Honda, the thing feels gutless until you get a small kick in the pants at 6k.
You may also notice when driving that the car has quite a kick around 3k, which is supported by the torque curve.
You should get a Hondata reflash.
