1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 162 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1772 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2919 mm |
