1973 Honda 145 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda 145 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 425 more horse power than 1973 Honda 145. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1973 Honda 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda 145, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 682 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda 145. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda 145. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1973 Honda 145 has manual transmission. 1973 Honda 145 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Honda 145 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 145 | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1433 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
