2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP) has 241 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 449 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 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. 1997 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optra | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.7 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1710 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 | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
