2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1310 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viano | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2950 mm |
