1983 Ford Mustang vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Mustang 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 188 more horse power than 1983 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 770 kg more than 1983 Ford Mustang. 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 1983 Ford Mustang. 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 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Mustang. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Mustang | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mustang | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2860 mm |
