1997 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Fiat Panda is newer by 23 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) has 189 more horse power than 1997 Fiat Panda. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1997 Fiat Panda. 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, 1997 Fiat Panda, 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 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Fiat Panda | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 768 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 223 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2870 mm |
