1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 255 kg more than 2008 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | S | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
