1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 24 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, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 70 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara (231 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | S | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2810 mm |
