1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1966 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Riley Kestrel 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 105 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 725 kg more than 1966 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 1966 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Riley |
| Model | S | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 25 L |
