1979 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 29 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP) has 315 more horse power than 1979 Honda Civic. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Civic.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Civic. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Civic. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Honda Civic | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | S |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |
