I would add that the engines in the Merc had more power, just the sheers size, weight and aerodynamics contributed to the lower performance. I think they may have been safer in a crash to.
Did they though? The top engines, yeah. Unless i’m remembering wrong, the Cooper S should have more power than both the 2.8l V6 and the 3.5l V8.
Might be wrong.
Prior: SEAT Ateca Xcellence Lux 1.5 TSI DSG MY19, VW Golf GTE PHEV DSG MY23
Current: Hyundai Ioniq 6 Ultimate
Next: we'll see what's available in 2028.