1965 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Acura TL

To start off, 2011 Acura TL is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Acura TL weights approximately 388 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1965 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Acura TL, 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, 2011 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Compare all specifications:

1965 Mercedes-Benz SL 2011 Acura TL
Make Mercedes-Benz Acura
Model SL TL
Year Released 1965 2011
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2305 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 280 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 196 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1688 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4966 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1453 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2776 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L