1951 Buick 40 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 374 more horse power than 1951 Buick 40. (119 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1951 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 320 kg more than 1951 Buick 40. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Buick 40. (292 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Buick 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Buick 40 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 40 | SL |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2570 mm |
