1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2012 Ford Mondeo 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 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mondeo (223 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mondeo 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 136 kg more than 2012 Ford Mondeo.
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 Ford Mondeo, 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 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Mondeo. (281 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1539 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2760 mm |
