2009 Chevrolet Nubira vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira is newer by 31 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira 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 889 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira.
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, 2009 Chevrolet Nubira, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Nubira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Nubira | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nubira | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2870 mm |
