2009 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 100 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2870 mm |
