2011 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (156 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | B |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5096 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3165 mm | 2699 mm |
