1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 39 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.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S 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 S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
