1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 47 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
