1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2009 Tesla Roadster is newer by 12 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. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 Tesla Roadster. (288 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Tesla Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 475 kg more than 2009 Tesla Roadster. 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) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Tesla Roadster. (370 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Tesla Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tesla |
| Model | E | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Single Speed |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3947 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2352 mm |
