2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (318 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Porsche 996. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2001 Porsche 996 has manual transmission. 2001 Porsche 996 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | R | 996 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2360 mm |
