1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 476 kg more than 2008 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2008 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 73 L |
