1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 225 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 477 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | E |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
