2003 Ford Mondeo vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Ford Mondeo 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Ford Mondeo. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 30 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mondeo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Mondeo. (175 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Mondeo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Mondeo | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mondeo | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
