2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1049 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 2008 GMC Sierra 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, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sierra | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6000 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 353 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2659 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5720 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3380 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 85 L |
