1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R 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 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 88 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
