1996 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Sebring is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Chrysler Sebring. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Sebring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chrysler Sebring. (176 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chrysler Sebring.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Sebring | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sebring | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
