1978 Ford Capri vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (137 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 835 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Capri | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Capri | SL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |