1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 12 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 5,985 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 177 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (212 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2008 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 2350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 96 L |
