1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 35 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Aura. (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Aura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | 450 | Aura |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 3474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 99.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 61 L |
