1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota Avensis (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 890 kg more than 2003 Toyota Avensis.
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 Toyota Avensis, 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 (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Avensis. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Avensis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2860 mm |
