1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 485 kg more than 1971 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Challenger | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
