1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 775 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (351 Nm) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1972 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT 40 | S |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 62 L |
