1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Bonneville is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Bonneville (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Bonneville should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Bonneville, 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 Pontiac Bonneville (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Bonneville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Pontiac Bonneville has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Pontiac Bonneville will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Pontiac Bonneville | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | S | Bonneville |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 318 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2700 mm |