2009 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Optra 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 Optra, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Optra. (151 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 Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Optra | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optra | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2870 mm |
