2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (158 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 325 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SL | Firebird |
Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 383 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2750 mm |