1973 Ferrari 246 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ferrari 246. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ferrari 246 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1973 Ferrari 246. (196 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Ferrari 246. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 689 kg more than 1973 Ferrari 246. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ferrari 246. (226 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ferrari 246.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 246 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 246 | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2418 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
