1971 Holden Statesman vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 41 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1971 Holden Statesman. (272 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 650 kg more than 1971 Holden Statesman. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Holden Statesman. (490 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Holden Statesman. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1971 Holden Statesman has manual transmission. 1971 Holden Statesman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Statesman | S |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3165 mm |
