1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 822 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | GTI |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2578 mm |
