2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1951 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1951 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1951 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1951 Porsche 356. 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1951 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1951 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1951 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
