2008 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G. (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz G | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2425 kg | 2250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 96 L | 90 L |
