1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 507 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Mustang | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1761 kg |
