1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 4,973 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 117 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 611 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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 Volkswagen GTI, 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
