2006 Ford E-350 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Ford E-350 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 5,407 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1261 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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-350, 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-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-350 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-350 | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5407 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2950 mm |
