1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima 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 190 kg more than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
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 Nissan Maxima, 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) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (335 Nm). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2830 mm |
