2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 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 102 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (200 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 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 1980 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (459 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1585 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 |
