1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 35 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 693 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 80 L |
