1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1961 Triumph TR3
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Triumph TR3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Triumph TR3 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1961 Triumph TR3. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Triumph TR3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 706 kg more than 1961 Triumph TR3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR3. (172 Nm @ 3350 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Triumph TR3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 1961 Triumph TR3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | S | TR3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3350 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 904 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 53 L |
