1988 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 554 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz G. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3170 mm |
