1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 30 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 565 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | R |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3220 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |