2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1988 Toyota Corolla. 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 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 597 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Corolla. (103 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Corolla. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1988 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
