2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 552 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (53 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 235 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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 SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 888 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (113 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 200 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5982 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.2 seconds | 31 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
