1964 Maserati Mistral vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Maserati Mistral. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Maserati Mistral would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1964 Maserati Mistral. (243 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1964 Maserati Mistral. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 411 kg more than 1964 Maserati Mistral. 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 1964 Maserati Mistral has manual transmission. 1964 Maserati Mistral will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Maserati Mistral | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mistral | SLS |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3694 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
