1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 14 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz G (500 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 551 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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, 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz G (699 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz G 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 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| 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 | 2004 kg | 2555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4686 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 96 L |
