1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Suzuki C2
To start off, 1997 Suzuki C2 is newer by 26 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, 1997 Suzuki C2 (251 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki C2 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 512 kg more than 1997 Suzuki C2.
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, 1997 Suzuki C2, 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, 1997 Suzuki C2 (284 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Suzuki C2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Suzuki C2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | C2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
