2007 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 29 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz B | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | S |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
