1964 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 68 kg more than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | B |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2780 mm |
