1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (397 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (601 Nm) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cabriolet | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 397 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4698 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2015 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1402 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2760 mm |
