2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2008 Tesla Roadster 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. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2008 Tesla Roadster. (288 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Tesla Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 900 kg more than 2008 Tesla Roadster. 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) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Tesla Roadster. (370 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Tesla Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tesla |
| Model | S | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Single Speed |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3947 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2352 mm |
