2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 815 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Impala | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
