1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 15 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. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G. (207 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G.
Because 2011 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, 2011 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G. (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4686 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2850 mm |
