1968 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 136 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (186 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | T5 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
