1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 359 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 700 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 595 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 230 | S |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2298 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 493 HP |
Torque | 205 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3090 mm |