1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 595 kg more than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
