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 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (235 HP @ 5000 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 280 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, 1969 Dodge Challenger (421 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
