1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1987 Porsche 959
To start off, 1987 Porsche 959 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Porsche 959 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Porsche 959 (450 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 1987 Porsche 959.
Because 1987 Porsche 959 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 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, 1987 Porsche 959 (500 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Porsche 959 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 1987 Porsche 959 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 959 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2270 mm |
