2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Mini MK III
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mini MK III 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 459 more horse power than 1973 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1343 kg more than 1973 Mini MK III. 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, 1973 Mini MK III, 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 639 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mini MK III. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1973 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1973 Mini MK III 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 | 1973 Mini MK III | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
Model | SL | MK III |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 612 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2040 mm |