2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 877 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, both vehicles can yield 400 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
