2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 310 kg more than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
