1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 256 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1986 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3170 mm |
