1981 Plymouth Horizon vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 456 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 939 kg more than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 515 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Plymouth Horizon | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Plymouth | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Horizon | SL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1715 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1939 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4592 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2560 mm |