2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
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 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1081 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1891 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2410 mm |