1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1954 Porsche 356
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1954 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1954 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1954 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 1954 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1954 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 | 1954 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 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 | 1820 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
