1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 10 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | T5 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 2270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3010 mm |