1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Pontiac G8
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G8 is newer by 37 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G8 (361 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G8 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 8 kg more than 2008 Pontiac G8.
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, 2008 Pontiac G8 (522 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G8 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 | 2008 Pontiac G8 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | G8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2920 mm |
