1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Honda Insight
To start off, 2011 Honda Insight is newer by 37 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2011 Honda Insight. (98 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Insight. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 498 kg more than 2011 Honda Insight. 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, 2011 Honda Insight, 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 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Insight. (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Insight.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | S | Insight |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2550 mm |
