2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2001 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (157 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 511 kg more than 2001 Toyota Highlander. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm) has 581 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (220 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2001 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 73 L |
