1979 Ford Fairlane vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1979 Ford Fairlane. (185 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 750 kg more than 1979 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Fairlane. (344 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Fairlane | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4940 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3170 mm |
