1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (236 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (225 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 317 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning.
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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. (305 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | 450 | VX Lightning |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 236 HP |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2420 mm |
