2001 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2001 Jaguar XK8 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Jaguar XK8 (390 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Jaguar XK8 (542 Nm) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm). This means 2001 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Jaguar XK8 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK8 | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2870 mm |
