2002 Lancia Thesis vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Lancia Thesis 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lancia Thesis (185 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lancia Thesis should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lancia Thesis weights approximately 85 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.
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 Lancia Thesis, 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 Lancia Thesis (305 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 2002 Lancia Thesis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lancia Thesis | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Thesis | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2870 mm |
