1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Audi Q7
To start off, 2012 Audi Q7 is newer by 41 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), 2012 Audi Q7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi Q7 (333 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi Q7 weights approximately 995 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 2012 Audi Q7 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, 2012 Audi Q7 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, 2012 Audi Q7 (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi Q7 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 | 2012 Audi Q7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Audi |
| Model | SL | Q7 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 333 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5088 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1984 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1737 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3002 mm |
