1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 284 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 519 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 500 | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2012 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
