1989 Honda Accord vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Honda Accord is newer by 15 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 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 kg more than 1989 Honda Accord. 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, 1989 Honda Accord, 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 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2870 mm |
