1986 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,761 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 425 kg more than 1986 De Tomaso Pantera.
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, both vehicles can yield 460 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 De Tomaso Pantera has manual transmission. 1986 De Tomaso Pantera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 De Tomaso Pantera | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Pantera | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5761 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
