2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (217 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 420 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 450 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4264 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
