2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1971 Triumph Spitfire. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 975 kg more than 1971 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Triumph Spitfire. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | SL | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
