1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 54 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1836 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 66 L |
