2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (297 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 22 kg more than 2008 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 E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (463 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1990 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 463 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2950 mm |
