1978 Daihatsu Taft 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 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (62 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 625 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taft | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Size | 2530 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2890 mm |
