1972 BMW 2002 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 1972 BMW 2002. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 2002. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 885 kg more than 1972 BMW 2002. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 540 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 2002. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 2002.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 2002 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2002 | SL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 62 L |
