2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 269 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 305 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | S |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 383 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 2215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2870 mm |