1996 Honda Accord vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord would be higher. At 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (176 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (135 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 465 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. 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, 1996 Honda Accord, 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 (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Accord | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
