1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 765 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-4 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-4 | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
