2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP) has 558 more horse power than 1971 Opel Rekord. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 668 kg more than 1971 Opel Rekord. 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 660 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Rekord. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1971 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1971 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLR McLaren | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 617 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
