1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 415 more horse power than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 285 kg more than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 578 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (223 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 320 | S |
| Year Released | 1942 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3208 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2720 mm |
