1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 44 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 335 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.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (299 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
