1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 27 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 689 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 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (310 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
