1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (457 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 655 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (601 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 457 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 601 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
