2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 32 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 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 590 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Astro | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
