1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Pontiac G3
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G3 is newer by 13 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac G3. (105 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac G3.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G3. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G3. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Pontiac G3 has manual transmission. 2009 Pontiac G3 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 | 2009 Pontiac G3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | G3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
