2003 Ford Mondeo vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Ford Mondeo is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2003 Ford Mondeo. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 790 kg more than 2003 Ford Mondeo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mondeo, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Mondeo. (175 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Mondeo. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Mondeo has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Mondeo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mondeo | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Mondeo | S |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 5985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 389 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 570 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.7 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |