1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Porsche Cayenne

To start off, 2012 Porsche Cayenne 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 312 more horse power than 2012 Porsche Cayenne. (300 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2012 Porsche Cayenne. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 55 kg more than 2012 Porsche Cayenne. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Porsche Cayenne is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayenne 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Porsche Cayenne. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Porsche Cayenne. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2012 Porsche Cayenne has manual transmission. 2012 Porsche Cayenne will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz E 2012 Porsche Cayenne
Make Mercedes-Benz Porsche
Model E Cayenne
Year Released 1998 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7410 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 612 HP 300 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 848 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2050 kg 1995 kg
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2896 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 85 L