1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1977 Simca 1309
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Simca 1309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Simca 1309 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1977 Simca 1309. (87 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Simca 1309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 515 kg more than 1977 Simca 1309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Simca 1309, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Simca 1309. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Simca 1309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1977 Simca 1309 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Simca |
| Model | S | 1309 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 58 L |
