2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1949 Porsche 356
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1949 Porsche 356. 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1949 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1949 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1949 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
