1973 Honda Civic vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Civic would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 457 more horse power than 1973 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1370 kg more than 1973 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Honda Civic, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 751 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Honda Civic | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Civic | SL |
Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1168 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 79 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 2045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2570 mm |