1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 13 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 249 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 376 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | B |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 343 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1676 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
