1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 GMC Terrain
To start off, 2012 GMC Terrain is newer by 16 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2012 GMC Terrain. (182 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 GMC Terrain. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 236 kg more than 2012 GMC Terrain. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 GMC Terrain, 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 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 GMC Terrain. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 GMC Terrain.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 GMC Terrain | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | GMC |
| Model | S | Terrain |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1754 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4707 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1684 mm |
