1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Rover 800
To start off, 1999 Rover 800 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Rover 800 (173 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 kg more than 1999 Rover 800.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Rover 800, 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, 1999 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Rover 800 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rover |
| Model | S | 800 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2780 mm |
