1966 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 39 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 380 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
