1975 Ford Fairlane vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1975 Ford Fairlane. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 505 kg more than 1975 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Fairlane. (326 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Ford Fairlane | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fairlane | S |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4096 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
