2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,720 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (241 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | T5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3720 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
