1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Pontiac G3
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G3 is newer by 31 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac G3. (105 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac G3.
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, 2009 Pontiac G3, 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 (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac G3. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac G3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Pontiac G3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | G3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2490 mm |
