1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 29 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 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 197 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 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 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1413 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 54 L |
