1969 Ford GT 40 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 254 more horse power than 1969 Ford GT 40. (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1969 Ford GT 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1106 kg more than 1969 Ford GT 40. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm) has 914 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Ford GT 40. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1969 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1969 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford GT 40 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT 40 | SL |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2066 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 80 L |
