1972 Ford Torino vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Torino would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 8 kg more than 1972 Ford Torino.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Torino. (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Torino. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Torino has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Torino will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Torino | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Torino | SL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1837 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5380 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 90 L |
