1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | 280 |
Year Released | 1966 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 90 L |