1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 35 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 23 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 334 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 46 L |
