2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1973 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 428 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 885 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. 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 S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 580 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1973 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2680 mm |
