1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 34 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 535 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
