1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (510 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 ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2986 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2240 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2920 mm |
