2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1982 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Santana. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Santana.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Santana, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Santana. (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Santana. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1982 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Santana |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
