1971 Buick Riviera vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick Riviera would be higher. At 7,468 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Buick Riviera (311 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Riviera weights approximately 192 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1971 Buick Riviera (617 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 1971 Buick Riviera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Buick Riviera | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Riviera | SL |
Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7468 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 617 Nm | 460 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2570 mm |