1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Seat Ronda
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Seat Ronda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Seat Ronda would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1981 Seat Ronda. (53 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Seat Ronda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 676 kg more than 1981 Seat Ronda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Seat Ronda, 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Seat Ronda. (98 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Seat Ronda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Seat Ronda | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Seat |
| Model | S | Ronda |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2460 mm |
