2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 520 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |