2009 GMC Sierra vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 GMC Sierra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Sierra (312 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Sierra weights approximately 334 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 GMC Sierra | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sierra | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 312 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1894 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6580 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4250 mm | 2950 mm |
