1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1966 Peugeot 204
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1966 Peugeot 204. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 480 kg more than 1966 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Peugeot 204, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Peugeot 204. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Peugeot 204.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1966 Peugeot 204 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | SL | 204 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
