2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 13 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 815 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (330 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Traverse | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
