1998 BMW 740 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 740 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 82 kg more than 1998 BMW 740.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 740. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 1998 BMW 740 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 740 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4264 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1968 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 88 L |
