2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Pontiac Firebird
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 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (125 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 530 kg more than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Pontiac Firebird. (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | S | Firebird |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1470 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2750 mm |