2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1966 Trabant P 601
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Trabant P 601. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Trabant P 601 would be higher. At 3,723 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1966 Trabant P 601. (23 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1966 Trabant P 601. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1300 kg more than 1966 Trabant P 601. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Trabant P 601, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Trabant P 601. (53 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Trabant P 601.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1966 Trabant P 601 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Trabant |
| Model | S | P 601 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3723 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 24 L |
