1956 Opel Kapitan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1956 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 990 kg more than 1956 Opel Kapitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Opel Kapitan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1956 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1956 Opel Kapitan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Opel Kapitan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kapitan | S |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2473 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3165 mm |
