2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9

To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Mazda CX-9. (273 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda CX-9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 68 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.

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 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda CX-9. (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda CX-9.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2012 Mazda CX-9
Make Mercedes-Benz Mazda
Model S CX-9
Year Released 2002 2012
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 275 HP 273 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1963 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 5085 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1935 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1727 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2875 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 76 L