1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2012 kg | 2005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
