2003 Dodge Ram vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Dodge Ram is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Ram (500 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 386 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Ram weights approximately 59 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Dodge Ram (732 Nm) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm). This means 2003 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Ram | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 732 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2274 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2870 mm |
