2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 105 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1610 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |
