1972 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. (255 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 501 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. (380 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Chevrolet Corvette 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Chevrolet Mercedes-Benz
Model Corvette S
Year Released 1972 2002
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5733 cc 4266 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 255 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 380 Nm 410 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 101.7 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.4 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1499 kg 2000 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 5170 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1220 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 3090 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 88 L