1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 26 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | R |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3216 mm |
