1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E 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 411 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 225 kg more than 2012 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7410 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 612 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 848 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 325 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1825 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
