2000 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1966 Wartburg 353
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 353. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 353 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 353. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 353. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 810 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 353. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 353, 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz S (311 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 353. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 353. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1966 Wartburg 353 has manual transmission. 1966 Wartburg 353 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz S | 1966 Wartburg 353 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Wartburg |
| Model | S | 353 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2460 mm |
