1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia is newer by 16 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. Both 1996 Mercedes-Benz E and 2012 Opel Insignia are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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, 2012 Opel Insignia (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia 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 | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2737 mm |
