2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 605 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
