1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 365 kg more than 1971 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | E |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
