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 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (181 HP @ 5500 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 460 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
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 | 5985 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 70 L |
