1973 Honda Z vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Z would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 486 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1670 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Honda Z. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 800 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1973 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1973 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Honda Z | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 3170 mm |
