1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1955 Rover P4
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1955 Rover P4. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 370 kg more than 1955 Rover P4. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Rover P4. (150 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1955 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rover |
| Model | SL | P4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 2102 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 65.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 105 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
