1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 26 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 171 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 470 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | T5 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3410 mm |
