1962 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1962 Chevrolet Corvette. (296 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1962 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 298 kg more than 1962 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Chevrolet Corvette. (488 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Chevrolet Corvette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Chevrolet Corvette | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5361 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 617 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
