2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Nissan Santana

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 821 kg more than 1989 Nissan Santana. 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, 1989 Nissan 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Santana. (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Santana. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan Santana has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan 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 1989 Nissan Santana
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model S Santana
Year Released 2002 1989
Engine Size 4966 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 303 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1074 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2560 mm