1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 275 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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 Volkswagen Caravelle (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2461 cc |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 9 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1885 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
