1978 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Mustang weights approximately 145 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Mustang. 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (339 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Mustang | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | R |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3220 mm |
