1972 Fiat 124 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP) has 188 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 845 kg more than 1972 Fiat 124. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 124 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 124 | SL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 80 L |
