2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 444 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 4966 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2298 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
