1971 Honda Z vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Honda Z would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 486 more horse power than 1971 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1450 kg more than 1971 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Honda Z, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 690 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Honda Z. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1971 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1971 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Honda Z | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 355 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2570 mm |
