1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Toyota Avalon
To start off, 2004 Toyota Avalon is newer by 26 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Avalon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Avalon (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Avalon 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 60 kg more than 2004 Toyota Avalon.
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, 2004 Toyota Avalon, 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, 2004 Toyota Avalon (279 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota Avalon 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 | 2004 Toyota Avalon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Avalon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
