1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster 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 117 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 787 kg more than 2005 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Smart |
| Model | S | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2370 mm |
