1986 Cadillac Allante vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Cadillac Allante is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1986 Cadillac Allante. (169 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Cadillac Allante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 140 kg more than 1986 Cadillac Allante. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Cadillac Allante, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Cadillac Allante. (324 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Cadillac Allante.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Cadillac Allante | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Allante | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4087 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2870 mm |
