2008 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 240 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (227 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 227 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 85 L |
