2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 375 kg more than 1971 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CLS | SL |
Year Released | 2007 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |