1978 Nissan Silvia vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (108 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Because 1978 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Silvia | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Nissan | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Silvia | B |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2699 mm |
