2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 480 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Holden GTS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden GTS. (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden GTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | S | GTS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |
