1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 3090 mm |
