1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Seat Alhambra
To start off, 2006 Seat Alhambra 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Seat Alhambra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Seat Alhambra (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Seat Alhambra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Seat Alhambra weights approximately 90 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 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 Seat Alhambra, 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 Seat Alhambra (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Seat Alhambra 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 Seat Alhambra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Seat |
| Model | S | Alhambra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
