1961 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 500 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 393 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 592 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE has manual transmission. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SE | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 781 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 98 L |
