1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Peugeot 306
To start off, 2003 Peugeot 306 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 2003 Peugeot 306. (100 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 466 kg more than 2003 Peugeot 306. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Peugeot 306, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Peugeot 306. (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Peugeot 306. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Peugeot 306 has manual transmission. 2003 Peugeot 306 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Peugeot 306 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | E | 306 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
