1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 12 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 218 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2008 Volkswagen T5, 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen T5. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen T5. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2008 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | T5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 18.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
