1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 839 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1609 | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2560 mm |
