1954 BMW 340 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1954 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 110 kg more than 1954 BMW 340. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 340 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 | SL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
