2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 30 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 5,653 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (330 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 855 kg more than 2008 Dodge Ram.
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, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2870 mm |
