1988 Buick Electra vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 500 kg more than 1988 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 415 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Electra. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Electra | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Electra | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 3035 mm |
