1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V 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 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 18 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 390 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | V |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3010 mm |
