2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP) has 504 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 940 kg more than 1978 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 853 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
