2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (129 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 509 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix has manual transmission. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
