1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 145 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | SL |
Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 157 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |