1978 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,765 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chevrolet Corvette. (380 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chevrolet Corvette. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1978 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Corvette | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5765 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 242 HP |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3110 mm |
