2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 73 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (169 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 455 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1968 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SE |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3723 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1915 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
