2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 Porsche 917
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Porsche 917. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Porsche 917 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. (510 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Porsche 917. (610 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Porsche 917. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1971 Porsche 917 has manual transmission. 1971 Porsche 917 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 | 1971 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 917 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
