2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (132 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 840 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 602 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 190 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2670 mm |
