2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 6 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2009 Toyota Highlander, 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (249 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 73 L |
