1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (470 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 120 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | CLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
