2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Porsche 911
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1978 Porsche 911. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 735 kg more than 1978 Porsche 911. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Porsche 911. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Porsche 911. (265 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Porsche 911. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1978 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1978 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 911 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
