1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 185 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | E |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2860 mm |
