1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Octavia 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 242 more horse power than 2003 Skoda Octavia. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Skoda Octavia.
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 Skoda Octavia, 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Skoda Octavia. (240 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Skoda Octavia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | E | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
