1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 470 kg more than 1968 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 1968 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3197 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 224 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |