2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1962 Porsche 718
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Porsche 718. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Porsche 718 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1962 Porsche 718. (146 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1962 Porsche 718. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1365 kg more than 1962 Porsche 718. 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 1962 Porsche 718 has manual transmission. 1962 Porsche 718 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 | 1962 Porsche 718 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 718 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
