1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1184 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. 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 (460 Nm) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sprite | SL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 80 L |
