1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2013 Ford Flex
To start off, 2013 Ford Flex is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Flex (281 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Flex weights approximately 468 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Flex, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2013 Ford Flex (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. 2013 Ford Flex has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 2013 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | E | Flex |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5125 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2256 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1726 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2994 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
