1996 Mercedes-Benz G 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 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 15 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G 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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
