2001 Acura RSX vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Acura RSX is newer by 23 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, 2001 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 354 kg more than 2001 Acura RSX.
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, 2001 Acura RSX, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RSX | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RSX | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1256 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 85 L |
