2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 455 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport. (190 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport has manual transmission. 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | E | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2930 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
