2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 BMW 730
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 730 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1996 BMW 730. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 389 kg more than 1996 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 730. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | S | 730 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
