1976 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 766 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz E | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Routan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 78 L |
