1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1968 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Triumph Spitfire, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Triumph Spitfire. (104 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1968 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
Model | SL | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1998 | 1968 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 73.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |