1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 104 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 335 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Valiant | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
