2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1960 Porsche 356
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 1960 Porsche 356. (135 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1960 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1169 kg more than 1960 Porsche 356. 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1960 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1960 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1960 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
