1973 Mazda 818 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 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 425 more horse power than 1973 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1041 kg more than 1973 Mazda 818. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 608 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 818. (92 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda 818 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 818 | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2570 mm |
