1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 375 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | E |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 3224 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
