2008 GMC Acadia vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 GMC Acadia 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 GMC Acadia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Acadia (276 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Acadia should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Acadia weights approximately 531 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 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 GMC Acadia, 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 GMC Acadia (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Acadia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Acadia | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Acadia | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 85 L |
