1987 Lada Samara vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lada Samara would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (52 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1315 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1987 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1987 Lada Samara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1100 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.6 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2890 mm |
