1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco 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, 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 312 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco.
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 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1404 mm |
