1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 355 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2850 mm |
