1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia 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 85 more horse power than 2011 Opel Insignia. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Insignia.
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 Opel Insignia, 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 203 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Insignia. (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Insignia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2737 mm |
