2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport
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 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport 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 157 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 395 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. 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 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. (237 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2800 mm |
