1997 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1997 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 1 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. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 742 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (176 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Sebring has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Sebring will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chrysler Sebring | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sebring | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
