1979 Buick Century vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Century would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1979 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 550 kg more than 1979 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Century. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Century | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Century | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
