1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
