1970 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1965 Riley Kestrel

To start off, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (95 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1965 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1965 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 445 kg more than 1965 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Riley Kestrel. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Riley Kestrel.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Mercedes-Benz E 1965 Riley Kestrel
Make Mercedes-Benz Riley
Model E Kestrel
Year Released 1970 1965
Engine Size 1988 cc 1098 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 95 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 159 Nm 84 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1330 kg 885 kg
Vehicle Length 4700 mm 3730 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2380 mm