1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 38 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 75 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Impala. (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | S | Impala |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2807 mm |
