2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
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 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 595 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2110 mm |
