1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 510 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (53 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 293 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 200 | SLS |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 317 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 33.2 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
