1957 BMW Isetta vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP) has 177 more horse power than 1957 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1394 kg more than 1957 BMW Isetta. 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:
| 1957 BMW Isetta | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Isetta | SL |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 190 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 366 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2520 mm |
