1971 Austin 1800 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 681 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 88 L |
