2004 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 30 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse 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 115 kg more than 2004 Buick LaCrosse.
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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse, 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 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Buick LaCrosse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick LaCrosse | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LaCrosse | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 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 | 1615 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2870 mm |
