2008 Infiniti M vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Infiniti M 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 4,493 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Infiniti M (325 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Infiniti M 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 378 kg more than 2008 Infiniti M.
Because 2008 Infiniti M 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 Infiniti M 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 Infiniti M (456 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Infiniti M | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Infiniti | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4493 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 456 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1837 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2870 mm |
