2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (237 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 406 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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 (700 Nm) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (402 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | 500 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 4972 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 237 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 402 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2820 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |