2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1971 Triumph 1500
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 Triumph 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Triumph 1500 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 450 more horse power than 1971 Triumph 1500. (60 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Triumph 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 990 kg more than 1971 Triumph 1500. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 610 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Triumph 1500. (110 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Triumph 1500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1971 Triumph 1500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | SL | 1500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
