1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Acura RDX
To start off, 2011 Acura RDX is newer by 33 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, 2011 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Acura RDX 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 517 kg more than 2011 Acura RDX.
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, 2011 Acura RDX, 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, 2011 Acura RDX (352 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Acura RDX 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 | 2011 Acura RDX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | S | RDX |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4636 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1869 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1654 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2649 mm |
