2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1956 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 1956 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1956 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 830 kg more than 1956 Opel Kapitan. 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1956 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1956 Opel Kapitan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1956 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
