1985 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3170 mm |
