2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 660 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 561 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
