1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 1978 Buick Century is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 180 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Buick Century (250 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 1978 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | S | Century |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2760 mm |
