1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (136 HP @ 2600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 185 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1735 kg |
