1971 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 275 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. (330 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1301 kg more than 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 512 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. (488 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Corvette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1529 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
