1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Dodge Challenger (241 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 190 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger.
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, 1972 Dodge Challenger (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | S |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |
