1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco 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, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 917 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1404 mm |
