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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 169 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
