1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 15 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 255 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
