1971 Innocenti J4 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 Innocenti J4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Innocenti J4 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1971 Innocenti J4. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Innocenti J4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1971 Innocenti J4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Innocenti J4, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Innocenti J4. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Innocenti J4. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1971 Innocenti J4 has manual transmission. 1971 Innocenti J4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Innocenti J4 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Innocenti | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | J4 | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2570 mm |
