2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1125 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen 1302 has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen 1302 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1979 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
