2002 Acura MDX vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Acura MDX is newer by 24 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 3,470 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura MDX (238 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura MDX weights approximately 360 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.
Because 2002 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura MDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Acura MDX (332 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura MDX | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MDX | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3470 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1970 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
