1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
