1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 360 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2950 mm |
