1978 Daihatsu Taft vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (62 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 441 kg more than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Taft 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Daihatsu Taft has manual transmission. 1978 Daihatsu Taft will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taft | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Size | 2530 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2950 mm |
