1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 391 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, 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 (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Cirrus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cirrus | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1825 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
