1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1105 kg more than 1980 Talbot Horizon. 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, 1980 Talbot Horizon, 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Talbot Horizon. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Talbot Horizon has manual transmission. 1980 Talbot Horizon 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 | 1980 Talbot Horizon | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Talbot |
Model | SL | Horizon |
Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1118 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 389 HP | 57 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 570 Nm | 91 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 74 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 65 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |