1966 Ford GT 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1966 Ford GT 40. (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford GT 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 814 kg more than 1966 Ford GT 40. 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 SL (830 Nm) has 745 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford GT 40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1966 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1966 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford GT 40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT 40 | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1040 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 80 L |
