1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia is newer by 31 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2004 Skoda Octavia. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 315 kg more than 2004 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Skoda Octavia 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 | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | S | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
