1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (389 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7410 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 612 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 848 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2180 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 100 L |
