2003 Chrysler 300 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Chrysler 300 is newer by 29 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, 2003 Chrysler 300 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler 300 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 95 kg more than 2003 Chrysler 300.
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, 2003 Chrysler 300, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler 300. (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler 300 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2734 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2870 mm |
