1978 ZIL 117 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,958 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 ZIL 117. (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 ZIL 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1039 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 ZIL 117. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 1978 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 ZIL 117 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | ZIL | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 117 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6958 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2950 kg | 1911 kg |
