2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 85 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
