2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 6 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 221 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 525 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | R |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 3220 mm |
