1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 374 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (129 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 675 kg more than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (333 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caprice | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3220 mm |
