1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 380 kg more than 1976 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 1976 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
