2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1965 Peugeot 204
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Peugeot 204. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Peugeot 204 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 449 more horse power than 1965 Peugeot 204. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1965 Peugeot 204. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1135 kg more than 1965 Peugeot 204. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 Peugeot 204, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 728 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Peugeot 204. (72 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Peugeot 204. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1965 Peugeot 204 has manual transmission. 1965 Peugeot 204 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1965 Peugeot 204 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | SL | 204 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1255 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 22.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 125 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 42 L |
