2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (296 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 94 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (470 Nm). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 105.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 106.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
