1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. (220 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 390 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. (310 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | S |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
