1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | S |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3090 mm |