1962 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. (190 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SE | B |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 54 L |
