2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,723 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen T5. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | T5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3723 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 19 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
