2007 Volkswagen Transporter vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Volkswagen Transporter. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Volkswagen Transporter would be higher. At 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Transporter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Transporter (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Transporter should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Transporter weights approximately 609 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Transporter, 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, 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:
| 2007 Volkswagen Transporter | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Transporter | E |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2460 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2344 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
