1999 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 3,198 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 285 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz E | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | 230 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3198 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 65 L |
