1994 Lancia Kappa vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1994 Lancia Kappa is newer by 20 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, 1994 Lancia Kappa (204 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 165 kg more than 1994 Lancia Kappa.
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, 1994 Lancia Kappa, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lancia Kappa. (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lancia Kappa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lancia Kappa | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | S |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
