2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 38 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4264 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 70 L |
