1968 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 490 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SE | E |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
