1966 Riley Kestrel vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 457 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1360 kg more than 1966 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Riley Kestrel, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 746 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Riley Kestrel | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Riley | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kestrel | S |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 90 L |
