1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1973 Ford Fairlane. (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 340 kg more than 1973 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1973 Ford Fairlane (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
