1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Porsche 911
To start off, 2009 Porsche 911 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Porsche 911 (321 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Porsche 911 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 315 kg more than 2009 Porsche 911.
Because 2009 Porsche 911 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, 2009 Porsche 911 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, 2009 Porsche 911 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Porsche 911 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 | 2009 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 911 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 67 L |
