2006 Dodge Dakota vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Dodge Dakota is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,704 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 140 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Dakota 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, 2006 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Dakota | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dakota | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3704 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
