1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Valiant | SL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
