2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (288 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 356 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (365 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
