1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 6. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 220 kg more than 2012 Mazda 6. 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, 2012 Mazda 6, 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 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | S | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2789 mm |
