1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 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 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 580 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2180 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 |
