2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (149 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
