2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm 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 179 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 785 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm, 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | S | Prizm |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4964 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2470 mm |