1961 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 47 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 655 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SE | R |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
