2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (200 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 432 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 has manual transmission. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz S 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
Make Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz
Model S 350
Year Released 2005 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4966 cc 3499 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 302 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 286 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 92 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 65.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 203 km/hour
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1980 kg 1548 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2470 mm