1989 Pontiac Trans Sport vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport 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 138 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (164 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 72 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Trans Sport | E |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1642 kg |
