2002 Dodge Viper vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Dodge Viper is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 8,277 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Viper (460 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 292 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Viper weights approximately 497 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Dodge Viper (678 Nm) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm). This means 2002 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Viper | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 8277 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 460 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 678 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1857 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
