1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 is newer by 40 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 535 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 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 | 2011 BMW 535 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | SL | 535 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2969 mm |
