1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1980 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 6 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 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 675 kg more than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | S | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2530 mm |
