1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1977 Holden GTS
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,139 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1977 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 kg more than 1977 Holden GTS. 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, 1977 Holden GTS (326 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1977 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1977 Holden GTS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Holden GTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1977 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Holden |
| Model | SL | GTS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 4139 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2830 mm |
