1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 28 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 150 kg more than 2002 Acura CL.
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, 2002 Acura CL, 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 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura CL. (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura CL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | S | CL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2580 mm |
