2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 359 more horse power than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1972 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 977 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 632 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1972 Datsun 240Z has manual transmission. 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | SL | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.3 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
