1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Rover 200
To start off, 1998 Rover 200 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 17 more horse power than 1998 Rover 200. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 405 kg more than 1998 Rover 200. 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, 1998 Rover 200, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Rover 200. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Rover 200 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rover |
| Model | S | 200 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |
