1979 Honda Accord vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Accord would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 572 more horse power than 1979 Honda Accord. (89 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 435 kg more than 1979 Honda Accord. 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, 1979 Honda Accord, 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 (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 858 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Accord. (142 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Accord. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1979 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1979 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Honda Accord | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Accord | SL |
Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1750 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 661 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 142 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |