1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 232 kg more than 1985 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | E |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 174 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
