1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 28 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Torrent 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 263 kg more than 2006 Pontiac Torrent.
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, 2006 Pontiac Torrent, 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, 2006 Pontiac Torrent (286 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Torrent 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 | 2006 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
