2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 575 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R 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 R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
