1973 BMW 2004 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 2004. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 2004 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 2004. (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 2004.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2004 | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2560 mm |
