Here's an intriguing challenge. How does the  new S-Class perform against an older Tesla Model S P100D?

A new S 500 competes in this video from the UK's CarWow. The model gets a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid tech. It makes 429 bhp (320 kilowatts) and 384 pound-feet (520 Newton-metres) of torque.

Gallery: Mercedes S-Class 500 (2021) test

According to a dyno video, the Model S P100D makes 588.79 hp (439.06 kW) and 920.38 lb-ft (1,248 Nm) at the wheels, so it comes to this race with a significant power advantage.

For the first race, the two sedans get together for a quarter-mile drag race. With the full torque instantly going to the wheels, the Tesla rockets to victory with a time of 12.2 seconds. The Mercedes needs 13.6 seconds.

Next, they try a rolling race from 30 miles per hour (48 kilometres per hour). Once again, the Model S just drives away from the S-Class. The Mercedes can do nothing to keep up.

To give the S-Class a chance, they re-run the race from 80 mph (129 kph). The Model S still takes a lead, but this time there's not as commanding as the last time. The Mercedes at least keeps the Tesla in its sights.

Finally, there's a braking test from 70 mph (113 kph). The S-Class finally scores a victory, but it's not a commanding win. The S 500's nose is roughly in line with the Model S' B-pillar, giving the Mercedes the advantage by just a few feet.

Until the AMG versions of the new S-Class go on sale, there's nothing the Mercedes saloon can do to keep up with a Tesla in a straight line. Even then, a Model S Plaid is still probably going to have an edge.