2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (187 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 20 kg more than 2012 Toyota Highlander. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Toyota Highlander, 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 73 L |
