1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Saleen S7
To start off, 2008 Saleen S7 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 596 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 313 kg more than 2008 Saleen S7.
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, 2008 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 725 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saleen |
| Model | S | S7 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2692 mm |
