1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1972 Ford GT 40. (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford GT 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 701 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm) has 564 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1972 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT 40 | SLS |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 85 L |
