1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Lumina would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 280 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Lumina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Lumina | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2890 mm |
