2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 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 383 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 730 kg more than 2009 Toyota Prius. 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, 2009 Toyota Prius, 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 689 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Prius |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2710 mm |
