2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1977 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Toyota Celica 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 415 more horse power than 1977 Toyota Celica. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1977 Toyota Celica. 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 665 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Toyota Celica. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1977 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Celica |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
