1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
