1959 Abarth 2200 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 2200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 2200 would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 2200. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 2200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 960 kg more than 1959 Abarth 2200. 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 2200 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 2200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 2200 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2200 | SL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2160 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
