1979 Honda Civic vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Civic would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP) has 426 more horse power than 1979 Honda Civic. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1265 kg more than 1979 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Honda Civic, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 692 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Civic. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Civic. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1979 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Honda Civic | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Civic | S |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1335 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 493 HP |
Torque | 108 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 2060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3090 mm |