1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 200 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | V |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
