1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 684 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zodiac | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 88 L |
