1952 Austin A 70 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 70. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 635 kg more than 1952 Austin A 70. 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1952 Austin A 70 has manual transmission. 1952 Austin A 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Austin A 70 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 70 | SL |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
