1954 Buick 40 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1954 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1954 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 kg more than 1954 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, 1954 Buick 40 (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Buick 40 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 40 | SL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4328 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1810 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2520 mm |
