1996 Honda Accord vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (104 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Honda Accord. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (210 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Accord | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
