1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 221 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1024 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
