1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Volkswagen SP
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen SP. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen SP 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 126 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen SP. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen SP. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 870 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen SP. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen SP. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen SP.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Volkswagen SP | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | SP |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
