2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1976 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Commodore 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 352 more horse power than 1976 Opel Commodore. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 740 kg more than 1976 Opel Commodore. 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 584 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Commodore. (216 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1976 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
