1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Versa. (123 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 795 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2008 Nissan Versa, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Versa |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 50 L |
