1983 Lincoln Continental vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,940 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1983 Lincoln Continental. (129 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 605 kg more than 1983 Lincoln Continental. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Lincoln Continental. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lincoln Continental. (310 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lincoln Continental.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lincoln Continental | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Continental | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4940 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3165 mm |
