1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1953 Porsche 356
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1953 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1953 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1953 Porsche 356. 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1953 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1953 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1953 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
