1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 24 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 487 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3020 mm |
