1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1977 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1977 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 78 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 270 kg more than 1977 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1977 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chrysler |
| Model | SL | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2670 mm |
