2008 Honda Accord vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Honda Accord is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP) has 49 more horse power than 2008 Honda Accord. (268 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 724 kg more than 2008 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Accord, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Accord. (337 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Accord | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 2004 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
