1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 453 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 944 | E |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1798 kg |
