2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,699 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4699 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2950 mm |
