2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (195 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 200 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | 300 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4519 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 195 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 358 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 11 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 82 L |