2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (122 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 645 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Vibe. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Vibe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Vibe |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
