2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Simca 1100
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 Simca 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca 1100 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 560 more horse power than 1978 Simca 1100. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1978 Simca 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca 1100, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 931 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca 1100. (67 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Simca 1100 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Simca |
| Model | SL | 1100 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 67 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2110 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 42 L |
