2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
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 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 215 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450.
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 (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 450 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
