1998 Peugeot 306 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 Peugeot 306. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Peugeot 306 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 351 more horse power than 1998 Peugeot 306. (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Peugeot 306. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 688 kg more than 1998 Peugeot 306. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Peugeot 306, 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 (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Peugeot 306. (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Peugeot 306. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Peugeot 306 has manual transmission. 1998 Peugeot 306 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Peugeot 306 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 306 | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1443 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2875 mm |
