1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (356 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 1978 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | S |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 356 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 85 L |