2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 10 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Impala |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2807 mm |
