1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 6,286 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (200 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 384 kg more than 1969 Dodge Challenger. 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (422 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6286 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
