2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP) has 235 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 415 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optra | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 343 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
