2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 8 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 519 kg more than 2011 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz E 2011 Honda Civic
Make Mercedes-Benz Honda
Model E Civic
Year Released 2003 2011
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2597 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 241 Nm 173 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4300 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1720 kg 1201 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4503 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1753 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1435 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 50 L