2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
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 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 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 429 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1220 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 707 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | S | 305 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
