1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 325 kg more than 1986 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 1986 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2860 mm |
