1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Fiat Croma
To start off, 2005 Fiat Croma is newer by 31 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 60 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Croma. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 90 kg more than 2005 Fiat Croma. 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, 2005 Fiat Croma, 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 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Fiat Croma. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Fiat Croma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | S | Croma |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
