1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 34 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 349 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 98 L |
