2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe

To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 780 kg more than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 540 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Pontiac Vibe. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 2003 Pontiac Vibe
Make Mercedes-Benz Pontiac
Model S Vibe
Year Released 2002 2003
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5437 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 493 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 700 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 91 mm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2005 kg 1225 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2970 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 45 L