1997 McLaren F1 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 McLaren F1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 McLaren F1 would be higher. At 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 McLaren F1 (618 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 965 kg more than 1997 McLaren F1.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 McLaren F1. (649 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 McLaren F1. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 McLaren F1 has manual transmission. 1997 McLaren F1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 McLaren F1 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | McLaren | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F1 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6063 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 618 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 649 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
