1988 Holden Barina vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Barina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Barina would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Holden Barina. (67 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Barina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 990 kg more than 1988 Holden Barina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Holden Barina, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Holden Barina. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Holden Barina. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1988 Holden Barina has manual transmission. 1988 Holden Barina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Holden Barina | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Barina | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2250 mm | 2860 mm |
