2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1975 ZIL 117
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,959 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1975 ZIL 117. (296 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1975 ZIL 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 ZIL 117 weights approximately 890 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 ZIL 117. (571 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 ZIL 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1975 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | ZIL |
| Model | S | 117 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 6959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 571 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 2950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 3310 mm |
