1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 209 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1666 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 88 L |
