2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 625 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
