1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante would be higher. At 5,340 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante (317 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (156 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante 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 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante. 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, 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante (434 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | V8 Volante | B |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5340 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2699 mm |
