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 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 220 kg more than 1966 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1520 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
