1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | T5 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
