1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (113 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 570 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (148 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | S | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Natural Gas (CNG) |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1320 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 30 L |
