2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Porsche 993
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 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 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 211 more horse power than 1996 Porsche 993. (282 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Porsche 993. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 743 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Porsche 993 will offer significantly more control. 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 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Porsche 993. (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Porsche 993. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche 993 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 | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 993 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 76.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2280 mm |
