1986 Dodge Charger vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1986 Dodge Charger is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1986 Dodge Charger. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 310 kg more than 1986 Dodge Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Dodge Charger, 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Dodge Charger. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Dodge Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Dodge Charger | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Charger | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
