1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 438 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 553 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 714 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Trans Sport | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1752 kg | 2305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 3165 mm |
