2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,879 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (224 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.

Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (237 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Buick Lucerne 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Buick Mercedes-Benz
Model Lucerne S
Year Released 2009 1974
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3879 cc 2744 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 224 HP 156 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 223 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 8.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 6 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1880 mm