1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,594 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 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, 2005 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 996 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2360 mm |
