2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 746 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | E | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1866 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
