2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 400 kg more than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Pontiac Firebird. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | S | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2750 mm |
