2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 485 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 85 L |
