1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (200 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 282 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (422 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6286 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
