1971 Ford 17 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 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford 17 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1971 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 820 kg more than 1971 Ford 17. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford 17 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 17 | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 88 L |
