1974 McLaren M23 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1974 McLaren M23 is newer by 1 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 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 McLaren M23 (455 HP @ 10250 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. (225 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 McLaren M23 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 1065 kg more than 1974 McLaren M23.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 1974 McLaren M23 has manual transmission. 1974 McLaren M23 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 McLaren M23 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | McLaren | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M23 | 450 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 455 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1635 kg |
