1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (250 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima 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 2005 Nissan Altima.
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 Nissan Altima, 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima 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 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Altima |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
