1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 (345 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111. (392 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 has manual transmission. 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C 111 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2400 cc |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 392 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 120 L |
