2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 TVR S2
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 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1988 TVR S2. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 TVR S2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 885 kg more than 1988 TVR S2. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 TVR S2. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 TVR S2. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 TVR S2 has manual transmission. 1988 TVR S2 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 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | S | S2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4964 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2290 mm |
