1998 Oldsmobile SS 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 Oldsmobile SS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile SS would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile SS.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile SS. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile SS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Oldsmobile SS | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SS | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
