1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 944 | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3165 mm |
