2006 Ford E-250 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Ford E-250 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-250 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-250 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 371 kg more than 2006 Ford E-250.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-250, 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, 2006 Ford E-250 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-250 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-250 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2950 mm |
