2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1987 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 900 kg more than 1987 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Talbot Horizon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Talbot Horizon. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Talbot Horizon. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Talbot Horizon has manual transmission. 1987 Talbot Horizon 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 | 1987 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Talbot |
| Model | SL | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 65 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |
