1971 Holden Statesman vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 90 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman.
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, 1971 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Statesman | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5042 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2950 mm |
