2003 Mercedes-Benz V vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 265 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz V has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1735 kg |
