2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1978 Opel Manta. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 909 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta. 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 (700 Nm) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Manta. (135 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Manta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 50 L |
