1989 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Renault 17
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 17 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 kg more than 1974 Renault 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 17, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 17. (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Renault 17 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | 17 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2440 mm |
