2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Plymouth Horizon
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 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Horizon 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) has 418 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1135 kg more than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. 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 Plymouth Horizon, 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 679 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | S | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2530 mm |
