1980 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1980 Dodge Aspen. (101 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 490 kg more than 1980 Dodge Aspen. 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Dodge Aspen | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Aspen | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
