2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 326 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 115 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2830 mm |
