1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2306 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |