2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 180 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 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |