1987 Lada Samara vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP) has 180 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara.
Because 2012 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 2012 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Samara. (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Samara. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 254 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 90 L |
