1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (228 HP) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Touareg. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Touareg. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 354 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 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 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1896 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
