2002 Holden Vectra vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Holden Vectra is newer by 28 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, 2002 Holden Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Holden Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 165 kg more than 2002 Holden Vectra.
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, 2002 Holden Vectra, 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, 2002 Holden Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Holden Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Vectra | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Vectra | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
