1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Porsche 911
To start off, 1997 Porsche 911 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Porsche 911. (276 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1997 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 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, 1997 Porsche 911 (922 Nm) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (570 Nm). This means 1997 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 911 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 922 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2280 mm |
