2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Opel Corsa

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Corsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Corsa 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 226 more horse power than 1988 Opel Corsa. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1045 kg more than 1988 Opel Corsa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1988 Opel Corsa, 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 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Corsa. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Corsa. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Corsa has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Corsa 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 1988 Opel Corsa
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model S Corsa
Year Released 2002 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 1488 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 275 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 90 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 850 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 3630 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2350 mm