1972 Honda Z 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 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Z would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1972 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1245 kg more than 1972 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Honda Z, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Z | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z | SL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2570 mm |
