What are the differences between the 801 and 802 versions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
4 Answers
Mercedes-Benz E: The Mercedes-Benz E is a luxury car produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. It is known for its solid performance and exquisite craftsmanship. The stable and luxurious atmosphere created inside the Mercedes-Benz E-Class appeals particularly to business professionals. Differences between the 801 and 802 versions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class mainly lie in power and configuration. What the 802 in Mercedes-Benz E300 represents: 802 is a vehicle assembly code that indicates the vehicle configuration. This code is not intended for the owner's understanding but requires professional interpretation. The vehicle configuration can be checked through the vehicle configuration table or by identifying the vehicle model, such as Comfort, Sport, or Luxury versions.
I've been researching the differences between the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 801 and 802 versions, and found that the main changes come from the 2020 facelift's technical upgrades. The 802 version replaced the infotainment system with MBUX, supporting touch and voice control with super-fast response, while the 801 still uses the older COMAND system, which feels cumbersome with its many buttons. Externally, the 802's LED headlights are sharper, and the grille has subtle tweaks for a sportier look, though the differences might not be obvious at first glance. Safety features are also enhanced—for example, the active braking is more sensitive, reducing collision risks. The powertrain remains largely unchanged, with similar output from the 2.0T engine, but the 802's software optimizations improve fuel efficiency and driving smoothness. As a car enthusiast, I believe the 802 makes a significant leap in digitalization and safety, making it ideal for city commuting. While the 801 is a classic with decent resale value, it lacks these modern features, making it feel a bit outdated. For new car buyers, I strongly recommend the 802; for used cars, the 801 is a budget-friendly option.
I've been driving a Mercedes-Benz E-Class for many years and have compared the 801 and 802 models. The differences lie in practical features. The 802 has upgraded interiors, adding touchscreen controls for air conditioning and navigation, eliminating the need to search for buttons like in the 801—just tap and go. There are minor lighting improvements, with the front headlight clusters being brighter, offering slightly better visibility at night, but nothing major. Both drive smoothly, but the 802's driver assistance is more precise, with fewer false corrections in lane-keeping, making long drives more relaxing. Maintenance-wise, the 802 has newer parts but lower failure rates, making it more cost-effective in the long run; the 801 is cheaper but has older systems that might develop more minor issues. As a daily driver, I think the 802's upgrades are worth the price difference, especially if you frequently use smart features for a more effortless drive. The 801 suits those on a tighter budget. I recommend test-driving both to feel the differences before deciding.
The Mercedes-Benz E801 was the initial version launched in 2016, featuring an elegant and conservative design with a signature wide and thick grille. The 802, after a minor facelift in 2020, adopted a more modern look, with split headlights and sharper taillights that added a sporty touch. The interior followed Mercedes' new design language, incorporating a larger screen display. The powertrain remained similar, but the 802 received software updates for a more stable ride. As a fan, the 801 is classic and timeless, turning heads on the road, while the 802 is trendy and youthful, offering a fresh driving experience but with slightly less charm. The choice between versions depends on your design preference—the 802 is newer, but the 801's old-school appeal is unforgettable.
