1999 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 760 kg more than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Plymouth 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | SL | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
